System, method and computer program product for content/context sensitive scanning utilizing a mobile communication device

Abstract

A system, method and computer program product are provided for scanning application program data utilizing a mobile communication device. Included is an application program installed on a mobile communication device capable of communicating via a wireless network. Such application program is adapted for performing tasks utilizing the mobile communication device. Associated therewith is a scanning subsystem in communication with the application program for scanning application data relating to the tasks performed by the application program. In use, the application program communicates information relating to the application data to the scanning subsystem to facilitate the scanning by the scanning subsystem.

Description

[0001]This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Applications Ser. No. 60 / 463,853 filed on Apr. 17, 2003.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention relates to mobile communication device security, and more particularly to scanning mobile communication devices for malware.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]The last decade has seen a rapid growth in the number and use of mobile cellular telephones. More recently, wireless devices have been introduced which combine the functionality of mobile telephones and Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs). It is expected that this area will undergo massive growth in the near future as new cellular telecommunication standards (i.e. GPRS, UMTS, and WAP) make possible the high speed transfer of data across the wireless interface.[0004]It can be expected that such platforms will be susceptible to attack from so-called “malware” such as viruses, Trojan horses, and worms (referred to collectively hereinafter as “viruses”); and othe...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0014]Thus, the information may improve the timing of the scanning by the scanning subsystem. Moreover, the information may improve the accuracy of the scanning by the scanning subsystem.

Problems solved by technology

It can be expected that such platforms will be susceptible to attack from so-called “malware” such as viruses, Trojan horses, and worms (referred to collectively hereinafter as “viruses”); and other unwanted / harmful content in much the same way as present day personal computers and workstations are susceptible.

Mobile wireless platforms present a series of problems for software developers (including developers of anti-virus software).

In particular, mobile wireless applications are traditionally not standardized, requiring a scanner to identify information about the application prior to any scanning operation being executed.

Unfortunately, this information gathering takes its toll on the performance of the scanning process.

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